It is often dubbed as one of the world’s most secret societies – the world of Freemasonry. From covert handshakes to Masonic rituals, mystery surrounds the organisation which has connections to the British Royal Family.

Many members of The Royal Family are rumoured to be Freemasons, although only two current royals are publicly known to be part of the society.

The Duke of Kent has been the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England for over 50 years.

This means The Queen’s cousin is the most senior Freemason in the hierarchy.

In 2017, the 82-year-old conducted 20 engagements that were connected to Freemasonry according to the Court Circular.

This included attending lunches at Freemasons’ Hall in London as well as holding private audiences with the Pro Grand Master.

The Duke’s brother, Prince Michael of Kent, is also a Freemason and is Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons, and Provincial Grand Master of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Middlesex.

In the past, five Monarchs have been members of a Masonic lodge.

This includes The Queen’s father, George VI, who was Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Scotland between 1936-37.

Edward VII was also Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England from 1874–1901.

There are around 5 million Freemasons around the world – 200,000 of them living in England and Wales.

Freemasons believe in brotherhood help out one another in times of hardship. However, the organisation does not come without controversy.

Because of the secrecy and alleged elitism within lodges, there is strong opposition to the movement in many countries.